Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a record-breaking career with Portugal that spanned more than two decades.
The 41-year-old forward made the announcement on Thursday in a video message, saying the time had come to hand back Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt.
Ronaldo represented his country for 23 years, making a record 234 appearances and scoring 146 goals for the national team.
His international career included six World Cup appearances and Portugal’s triumph at the 2016 European Championship. He also became the men’s all-time leading international goalscorer.
In his retirement message, Ronaldo reflected on the responsibility and privilege of representing Portugal throughout his career.
The announcement ends his international playing career, although he is expected to continue playing at club level for Al-Nassr.
Source: Reuters
